Arjia Rinpoche Talks About His Book

Arjia Rinpoche, director of the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center in Bloomington, will talk about the turbulent years he spent in Tibet during the Cultural Revolution during a presentation beginning at 1:30 p.m. 28 August in Border's Book Store, 8675 Rivercrossing Boulevard, Indianapolis.

Rinpoche, who spent 16 years in a forced labor camp, is the author of Surviving the Dragon: A Tibetan Lama's Account of 40 Years of Chinese Rule (Rodale Press, 2010).

This event is free and open to the public. More information available by email or call 317:816-0119.

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International Festival 2008 is History

It's all over for 2008 -- and the award winners have been announced for Indy's International Festival.

First and second place awards are given to cultural booths of Nationalities Council of Indiana Group members. In addition, the best overall culture booth wins "The Betty" trophy for 2008.

1. THEME: Include in cultural booth historical, geographical, culinary, social or educational aspects of the particular culture.
First: Russian-Speaking Students at Indiana University-Purdue University in Indianapolis; second: Taiwanese American Association of Indianapolis.

2. EDUCATIONAL VALUE: Provide relevant information to visitors about the culture.
First: International Tibet Independence Movement; second: Barangay Club of Indiana.

3. CREATIVITY: Demonstrate an effective and enjoyable method to attract visitors.
First: Scottish Society of Indianapolis; second: Indonesian Community of Indianapolis

4. QUALITY: Overall excellence. Examples would be people in native costumes and friendly approach to visitors.
First: Indiana Okinawa Kenjinkai; second: Swiss Club Of Central Indiana.

The Betty was awarded to Society for Promotion of Persian Culture (see photo).

Food Booths of NCI Group Members are evaluated for 1) quality and authenticity of food and 2) appearance and sanitary conditions of the booth.
First: Taiwanese American Association of Indianapolis; second, German American Klub,

Volunteer Service award (“The Steve”) is presented to the individual who has demonstrated commitment to the goals of NCI and has actively worked toward their achievement. It was awarded to Susan McKee.